Ireland’s first fully automated vending machine store has officially opened in New Ross, Co Wexford. Named E-Kiosk, the store operates 24/7, offering a diverse selection of products, including American and Asian (Japanese and Korean) sweets, crisps, energy drinks, soft drinks, sandwiches, wraps, overnight oats, protein balls, fresh milk, and more.
While the store has staff on-site, there is no traditional checkout counter. Instead, customers select and pay for their items using vending machines, with payment options available for both cash and cards. After completing their purchase, customers collect their shopping from a separate dispensing machine.
Tomás Young of Proserve Solutions, a New Ross-based technology company behind the venture, shared that he was inspired by a similar concept he encountered in the south of France six years ago, which sparked the idea for E-Kiosk. New Ross local Tomás Young is leading this innovative project, offering Wexford residents the opportunity to experience this unique retail model firsthand.
“The aim is to offer customers something completely new – a fast, easy, and enjoyable shopping experience, whether you’re looking for your everyday essentials or a taste of something special from abroad, E-Kiosk Ireland has you covered,” Tomas said. Jordan Casey, Digital Director of E-Kiosk Ireland, expressed his excitement about bringing this first-of-its-kind store to the South East.
“It’s an honour to be involved in such an innovative technology project, and to be able to offer the first in Ireland here in the South East. To see the movement from concept to reality has been truly mind-blowing and I have to tip my hat to Tomas and Emils for their work here. “We hope people will enjoy the store and new experience and we believe the future is bright!” Jordan said.
Its owners say it’s the initial step in a plan to roll out automated retail vending stores nationwide.
